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The Lost Ones
Not yet published
Expected 1 Dec 26From the author of All the Little Raindrops comes a haunting thriller about an escaped convict and the woman he saved, working together to root out a gruesome conspiracy in the hills of West Virginia.
Duke Caraway was convicted of a brutal murder he can’t remember committing. When he escapes from prison, he’s not evading justice. He’s pursuing it. And his hunt for the real killer leads back to the impoverished Appalachian town where everything went wrong.
Only one person believes him: Winsome Fair. Years ago, seven-year-old Duke rescued Winsome from his monstrous father’s makeshift dungeon—her and little Junie. But that one heroic act had devastating consequences for Duke’s own life, setting him on a path to group homes and addiction. And now Junie is dead, allegedly by his hand.
Guidance counselor Winsome, still haunted by her past, agrees to help Duke clear his name. But as clues uncover a vast network of stolen children, silenced witnesses, and corrupt officials, they’re shocked when it all hits so close to home. With their enemies growing bolder and their deepening connection squarely at risk, they race to expose a community’s darkest secrets, no matter the price.
Duke Caraway was convicted of a brutal murder he can’t remember committing. When he escapes from prison, he’s not evading justice. He’s pursuing it. And his hunt for the real killer leads back to the impoverished Appalachian town where everything went wrong.
Only one person believes him: Winsome Fair. Years ago, seven-year-old Duke rescued Winsome from his monstrous father’s makeshift dungeon—her and little Junie. But that one heroic act had devastating consequences for Duke’s own life, setting him on a path to group homes and addiction. And now Junie is dead, allegedly by his hand.
Guidance counselor Winsome, still haunted by her past, agrees to help Duke clear his name. But as clues uncover a vast network of stolen children, silenced witnesses, and corrupt officials, they’re shocked when it all hits so close to home. With their enemies growing bolder and their deepening connection squarely at risk, they race to expose a community’s darkest secrets, no matter the price.
Kindle Edition
Expected publication December 1, 2026
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Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
4.5 ⭐
What the heck did I just read!?? I was literally staring at a wall and that's a first!! I was thinking of the wrong pronoun! That blindsided me...it's been a while since I read a thriller this good! it was well written, appropriately paced and with an unexpected twist! now excuse me I'm gonna go find Mia's other thrillers
⋆ ˚｡⋆୨୧˚𝕮𝖑𝖔𝖘𝖊𝖉 𝕯𝖔𝖔𝖗 𝕸𝖔𝖉𝖎𝖋𝖎𝖈𝖆𝖙𝖎𝖔𝖓𝖘˚୨୧⋆｡˚ ⋆
SKIP CHAPTER:51
⋆ ˚｡⋆୨୧˚𝕻𝖗𝖊-𝖗𝖊𝖆𝖉˚୨୧⋆｡˚ ⋆
I love everything Mia Sheridan so I'm thankful for Montlake and Netgalley for this eARC 🖤🩷
What the heck did I just read!?? I was literally staring at a wall and that's a first!! I was thinking of the wrong pronoun! That blindsided me...it's been a while since I read a thriller this good! it was well written, appropriately paced and with an unexpected twist! now excuse me I'm gonna go find Mia's other thrillers
⋆ ˚｡⋆୨୧˚𝕮𝖑𝖔𝖘𝖊𝖉 𝕯𝖔𝖔𝖗 𝕸𝖔𝖉𝖎𝖋𝖎𝖈𝖆𝖙𝖎𝖔𝖓𝖘˚୨୧⋆｡˚ ⋆
SKIP CHAPTER:51
⋆ ˚｡⋆୨୧˚𝕻𝖗𝖊-𝖗𝖊𝖆𝖉˚୨୧⋆｡˚ ⋆
I love everything Mia Sheridan so I'm thankful for Montlake and Netgalley for this eARC 🖤🩷
August 1, 2026
**ARC provided in exchange for an honest review**
Mia Sheridan is one of my favorite authors, so I was really looking forward to The Lost Ones. Romantic suspense also has a special place in my heart because it was the genre that introduced me to romance. I don't read it nearly as often anymore, so it always feels a bit nostalgic when I pick one up.
I'll admit I was a little hesitant at first because the escaped convict trope isn't usually one of my favorites. But I should have trusted Mia, because she completely pulled it off. The story hooked me right from the start and had me on the edge of my seat.
I'm normally not a big fan of flashbacks, but they really worked here. They added so much to the story and gave me a much better understanding of the characters and everything they had been through.
The suspense was done so well. Just when I thought I had everything figured out, Mia completely surprised me with another twist. I honestly didn't see some of them coming.
I also really connected with Duke and Winsome. I cared about what happened to them from the beginning, and that made the story even more engaging. The romance was another highlight for me. Since friends-to-lovers and second-chance romances are two of my favorite tropes, I loved watching their relationship develop alongside the suspense.
Overall, this was a gripping, emotional, and unpredictable read. It reminded me why I fell in love with romantic suspense in the first place, and it's another great book from Mia Sheridan.
Mia Sheridan is one of my favorite authors, so I was really looking forward to The Lost Ones. Romantic suspense also has a special place in my heart because it was the genre that introduced me to romance. I don't read it nearly as often anymore, so it always feels a bit nostalgic when I pick one up.
I'll admit I was a little hesitant at first because the escaped convict trope isn't usually one of my favorites. But I should have trusted Mia, because she completely pulled it off. The story hooked me right from the start and had me on the edge of my seat.
I'm normally not a big fan of flashbacks, but they really worked here. They added so much to the story and gave me a much better understanding of the characters and everything they had been through.
The suspense was done so well. Just when I thought I had everything figured out, Mia completely surprised me with another twist. I honestly didn't see some of them coming.
I also really connected with Duke and Winsome. I cared about what happened to them from the beginning, and that made the story even more engaging. The romance was another highlight for me. Since friends-to-lovers and second-chance romances are two of my favorite tropes, I loved watching their relationship develop alongside the suspense.
Overall, this was a gripping, emotional, and unpredictable read. It reminded me why I fell in love with romantic suspense in the first place, and it's another great book from Mia Sheridan.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Winsome + Duke
1961. Duke grew up all alone with only his truck driver dad in a trailer deep in the woods of West Virginia. He didn't go to school. Never saw much of other people. One night, when Duke was only seven years old, he saw his dad doing something. And that changed not only Duke's life but also six year old Winsome's.
21 two years later Duke has been in jail for eight years when he knows he has to break out to save Winnie again.
And that is only the very beginning of this amazing book....
══════════════════
I loved this so much.
Even though I was thoroughly confused during the first 15% of the book. We get so many years/timelines/ages/people and we have to guess our way around a bit. It was a slightly complicated for my brain. But it didn't take me long to get used to it all.
The main story takes place in 1982.
Winnie and Duke detecting their way through everything that is happening and everything that happened years ago.
I really enjoyed reading this.
It was so heartbreaking and dark and terrible and true-crime-podcasty and ... just so sad.
When you leave all the really bad stuff out, it could be just a cute little childhood sweethearts second-chance small-town romance.
But there was not much sweet about our darlings' lives.
You just want them to get their happily ever after. But there's a lot to fight through to get there. Lots of secret detective work and guessing. And then, when we think, okay, now we know what and who and why... Mia goes and bam! What the actual potato? I had to put my kindle down and didn't know if I really just read through almost this whole book without my brain turned on, or... and now ... this? What?
I just loved this book.
It was really really horrible and triggery but also heartbreaking and sweet and just so very beautifully written.
I could imagine that Mia found a newspaper story or a podcast about such happenings and put them in a book. It's not something that you want happening in real life, but it's happening - or hopefully it ended happening decades ago. But I doubt it.
Anyway. Read this book. It's heartbreakingly beautiful and I really want to see this on TV one day
THE LOST ONES was such a beautiful and extremeley heartbreaking and horrible but also super amazing 1982 Small Town West Virginia Mystery Thriller Romance. Read it!
If you can't click the buy-links
from your phone - click ► HERE!
💜
💜
August 7, 2026
Wow. Mia Sheridan always knows how to write a heart wrenching and beautiful story. This book hooked me from the start, and she did a great job visualizing the small, run down town. You are invested in the characters from the beginning.
I truly did not see the twist coming! It’s rare that an author can totally blindside you but she sure did! A powerful, emotional read and another book I’d recommend from Mia Sheridan!
Thank you to NetGalley and Montlake for the eARC.
I truly did not see the twist coming! It’s rare that an author can totally blindside you but she sure did! A powerful, emotional read and another book I’d recommend from Mia Sheridan!
Thank you to NetGalley and Montlake for the eARC.
August 10, 2026
This was very much a wild ride! I loved the way that mia sheridan wrote this. She had you guessing and on your toes through the whole thing. I could have never guessed the twists that happened in this. It was such a good book and the characters were great! She really made you connect with them.
Thank you NetGalley and Montlake for a copy of this eARC.
Thank you NetGalley and Montlake for a copy of this eARC.
August 7, 2026
5 PERFECT STARS
This was an amazing thriller. There was a sub plot of romance but I’m not sure if it was enough to feel fully like a romantic suspense. Or maybe just personally I found myself so invested in the twisty thriller that I was not in it as much for the romance. Regardless, this was perfectly executed to keep me reading “one more chapter.”
I literally never knew what was coming. I was so drawn to these characters and their life stories and struggles. We get to read some about really great humans who have persevered through some of the most despicable humans actions.
The writing was extremely atmospheric, leading me to be that much more invested, feeling as though I was in the West Virginia hills with these very interesting families.
Thank you Montlake & Netgalley for the EARC in exchange for my honest review! 🫶🏼
This was an amazing thriller. There was a sub plot of romance but I’m not sure if it was enough to feel fully like a romantic suspense. Or maybe just personally I found myself so invested in the twisty thriller that I was not in it as much for the romance. Regardless, this was perfectly executed to keep me reading “one more chapter.”
I literally never knew what was coming. I was so drawn to these characters and their life stories and struggles. We get to read some about really great humans who have persevered through some of the most despicable humans actions.
The writing was extremely atmospheric, leading me to be that much more invested, feeling as though I was in the West Virginia hills with these very interesting families.
Thank you Montlake & Netgalley for the EARC in exchange for my honest review! 🫶🏼
July 1, 2026
I don’t give many books 5 stars but this one was AMAZING!!! Mia seriously knows how to keep your attention and make you want to keep reading. Her writing style is chef’s kiss and this thriller had me shooketh at the end and wrong about everything I thought 🤣
It’s written in 3 different POV’s and 3 different time periods, which you would think would be confusing but the way she does it makes you excited to get to the next person’s POV.
Set in rural West Virginia Appalachia, Duke and Winnie have an unshakeable bond after Duke rescues Winnie and her sister from his father kidnapping her. They become fast friends, but end up having a falling out at some point. Years later after Duke escapes from prison, him and Winnie find their way back to each other to solve the mystery of her sister’s murder. But what they discover is so much worse than what they could’ve imagined.
Without giving any spoilers, this book centers around corrupt members taking advantage of members in a poverty stricken community but Mia always is so good about bringing justice to those that need it.
This book does have some dark themes in it so I highly recommend looking at the trigger warnings.
It’s written in 3 different POV’s and 3 different time periods, which you would think would be confusing but the way she does it makes you excited to get to the next person’s POV.
Set in rural West Virginia Appalachia, Duke and Winnie have an unshakeable bond after Duke rescues Winnie and her sister from his father kidnapping her. They become fast friends, but end up having a falling out at some point. Years later after Duke escapes from prison, him and Winnie find their way back to each other to solve the mystery of her sister’s murder. But what they discover is so much worse than what they could’ve imagined.
Without giving any spoilers, this book centers around corrupt members taking advantage of members in a poverty stricken community but Mia always is so good about bringing justice to those that need it.
This book does have some dark themes in it so I highly recommend looking at the trigger warnings.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Necessary and important. This story should be read by all.
I'm stunned, shivers running down my spine and frankly- my Rage is Raging!!
I'm beginning to suspect Mia possesses some kind of psychic abilities. When she wrote Heart of the Sun, in real world we were dealing with place accidents all over the world, camps were being built and there was a strong suspicion of grid collapse reality.
when this book will be released, we have been through a Wayfair conspiracy, a Vinted is on the horizon and the "island documents" scandals galore, THIS fiction makes so much sense, it parallels or maybe mirrors Factuality. The similarities are uncanny and creepy enough to be coincidental.
I'm too scared to what she conjure up next.
Or maybe she CAN go the Simpsons way.IYKYK 😜
Anywho the boonies is the setting. Rural poorest who live in the godforsaken mountains in the 1948, 1961 & 1982. The story dashes between these three years, chronicling the penury of Callaways. The father, the mother and 4 children Billy, Bean, Lottie & Cecily. Abused, neglected, starved they see more than their fair share of beatings, rapes and trauma
“Why would you make a deal with the devil?” he asked.
“Daddy was the devil,” I told him.
“And I bashed his head in.”
They are not even in the count, perpetually hungry and at the mercy of in-breeding. Basically an oven to pop out buns for sale
Hazelene Suggs the harbinger of cash, taking them all away.
Jump to the present time of 1982 where Duke is incarcerated for 25 years but breaks out to help save the girl his father would be going for - Winsome Fair. Adopted daughter of the mayor -Twyla Fair. A sophisticated and cultured girl who studied in paris.
There's too much that goes on at a slow pace where Winnie returns home and abets the escaped fugitive Duke.
“There’s darkness in me, Duke. It runs in my blood like poison. If I ever . . . if I ever do somethin’ that don’t seem right, you make sure I stop, however you gotta do that, you hear?”
But the whole town goes against them opening the closet of secrets sealed shut. Those skeletons are making awful noise though..........
The twist is the most messed up in the end. Fair warning
Mia takes a challenge of turning every unique story, nothing like I've read before, and still keeps it interesting. I love her diverse genres, Tropes and her fierce bravery in handling sensitive topics in today's political climate.
“4 stars for “something of the marvelous,” ”
Follow me on:
Email🌻 Bookbub 🌻 Twitter🌻 Instagram🌻 Blog🌻 Facebook🌻 Amazon 🌻 TikTok 🌻 StoryGraph 🌻 YouTube 🌻
I'm stunned, shivers running down my spine and frankly- my Rage is Raging!!
I'm beginning to suspect Mia possesses some kind of psychic abilities. When she wrote Heart of the Sun, in real world we were dealing with place accidents all over the world, camps were being built and there was a strong suspicion of grid collapse reality.
when this book will be released, we have been through a Wayfair conspiracy, a Vinted is on the horizon and the "island documents" scandals galore, THIS fiction makes so much sense, it parallels or maybe mirrors Factuality. The similarities are uncanny and creepy enough to be coincidental.
I'm too scared to what she conjure up next.
Or maybe she CAN go the Simpsons way.IYKYK 😜
Anywho the boonies is the setting. Rural poorest who live in the godforsaken mountains in the 1948, 1961 & 1982. The story dashes between these three years, chronicling the penury of Callaways. The father, the mother and 4 children Billy, Bean, Lottie & Cecily. Abused, neglected, starved they see more than their fair share of beatings, rapes and trauma
“Why would you make a deal with the devil?” he asked.
“Daddy was the devil,” I told him.
“And I bashed his head in.”
They are not even in the count, perpetually hungry and at the mercy of in-breeding. Basically an oven to pop out buns for sale
Hazelene Suggs the harbinger of cash, taking them all away.
Jump to the present time of 1982 where Duke is incarcerated for 25 years but breaks out to help save the girl his father would be going for - Winsome Fair. Adopted daughter of the mayor -Twyla Fair. A sophisticated and cultured girl who studied in paris.
There's too much that goes on at a slow pace where Winnie returns home and abets the escaped fugitive Duke.
“There’s darkness in me, Duke. It runs in my blood like poison. If I ever . . . if I ever do somethin’ that don’t seem right, you make sure I stop, however you gotta do that, you hear?”
But the whole town goes against them opening the closet of secrets sealed shut. Those skeletons are making awful noise though..........
The twist is the most messed up in the end. Fair warning
Mia takes a challenge of turning every unique story, nothing like I've read before, and still keeps it interesting. I love her diverse genres, Tropes and her fierce bravery in handling sensitive topics in today's political climate.
“4 stars for “something of the marvelous,” ”
Follow me on:
Email🌻 Bookbub 🌻 Twitter🌻 Instagram🌻 Blog🌻 Facebook🌻 Amazon 🌻 TikTok 🌻 StoryGraph 🌻 YouTube 🌻
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
The Lost Ones is a slow paced book where two former friends connected through childhood trauma unravel a conspiracy in the impoverished hills of West Virginia. It's told through 3 different timelines and multiple POVs.
I don't know how I feel about this book. This is the first book of Mia Sheridan that I've read and she's been on my TBR forever. I got into it thinking I was picking up a thriller (as stated in the blurb) and as such, I was expecting high stakes, tension, a feeling of urgency.
Instead, the first 30% of the book slowly introduces the characters' backstory. It kind of picks up at 40%, but I still found myself googling once I reached 60% : "what's the difference between a thriller, a suspense and a mystery?"
The story itself was interesting and thought provoking. And that plot twist!! It just wasn't what I expected going in and I felt a bit... blindsided maybe? misled? Am I at fault for having these expectations? I'm confused mostly.
I think it's a great book for fans of mysteries with a dash of tension and romance... For what it's worth, in my unprofessional opinion, I'd characterize the book as more of a mystery because the majority of it leans more towards puzzle-solving and less towards action-packed events. I don't know about official classifications, but I feel like that gives readers a better idea about what to expect.
For me, it wasn't a 'stay-awake-all-night-because-I-need-to-know-what-happens-next' story. It was more of a slow buildup, where each new piece of information paints an increasingly horrifying portrait until you reach the pinnacle of the story where it then becomes a tense and action-packed page-turner.
Thank you to the publisher and NetGalley for providing me with an ARC. This is my honest review. I oscillated between giving the book 3 or 4 stars, because I did like it and would have maybe even loved it if I had went in with different expectations...
I don't know how I feel about this book. This is the first book of Mia Sheridan that I've read and she's been on my TBR forever. I got into it thinking I was picking up a thriller (as stated in the blurb) and as such, I was expecting high stakes, tension, a feeling of urgency.
Instead, the first 30% of the book slowly introduces the characters' backstory. It kind of picks up at 40%, but I still found myself googling once I reached 60% : "what's the difference between a thriller, a suspense and a mystery?"
The story itself was interesting and thought provoking. And that plot twist!! It just wasn't what I expected going in and I felt a bit... blindsided maybe? misled? Am I at fault for having these expectations? I'm confused mostly.
I think it's a great book for fans of mysteries with a dash of tension and romance... For what it's worth, in my unprofessional opinion, I'd characterize the book as more of a mystery because the majority of it leans more towards puzzle-solving and less towards action-packed events. I don't know about official classifications, but I feel like that gives readers a better idea about what to expect.
For me, it wasn't a 'stay-awake-all-night-because-I-need-to-know-what-happens-next' story. It was more of a slow buildup, where each new piece of information paints an increasingly horrifying portrait until you reach the pinnacle of the story where it then becomes a tense and action-packed page-turner.
Thank you to the publisher and NetGalley for providing me with an ARC. This is my honest review. I oscillated between giving the book 3 or 4 stars, because I did like it and would have maybe even loved it if I had went in with different expectations...
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Wow! Mia Sheridan really does not miss when it comes to romantic thrillers!
I was completely locked in from start to finish. She has this way of pulling me into a story, making me feel unsettled in the best way, and constantly asking myself what is actually going on here? And just when I think I’ve figured it out… I absolutely have not.
One thing I always appreciate about her books is how they center on taking down corrupt men and broken systems, especially when it comes to protecting women and children. It feels timely, it feels important, and it adds so much weight to the story beyond just the suspense.
This is one of my favorite genres, which is romantic suspense, and she always does it so well. The connection between Duke and Winsome builds in such a natural, emotional way without taking away from the tension of the mystery. It’s perfectly balanced between sweet but also dark in a connected way.
There’s also a past/present timeline, which normally isn’t my favorite because it can pull me out of the story but it worked so well here. It actually added to the suspense and made all of the twists and turns feel more impactful.
Definitely check content warnings because this one is HEAVY. The themes are dark, emotional, and at times hard to read, but I think they were handled well for the content.
And the twist?! I was beside myself. Completely shook. MIA, YOUR MIND!
This was truly so gripping, very emotional, and impossible to put down. I will read whatever Mia Sheridan writes!
Thank you to NetGalley, Mia Sheridan, and Montlake for the eARC of this book.
I was completely locked in from start to finish. She has this way of pulling me into a story, making me feel unsettled in the best way, and constantly asking myself what is actually going on here? And just when I think I’ve figured it out… I absolutely have not.
One thing I always appreciate about her books is how they center on taking down corrupt men and broken systems, especially when it comes to protecting women and children. It feels timely, it feels important, and it adds so much weight to the story beyond just the suspense.
This is one of my favorite genres, which is romantic suspense, and she always does it so well. The connection between Duke and Winsome builds in such a natural, emotional way without taking away from the tension of the mystery. It’s perfectly balanced between sweet but also dark in a connected way.
There’s also a past/present timeline, which normally isn’t my favorite because it can pull me out of the story but it worked so well here. It actually added to the suspense and made all of the twists and turns feel more impactful.
Definitely check content warnings because this one is HEAVY. The themes are dark, emotional, and at times hard to read, but I think they were handled well for the content.
And the twist?! I was beside myself. Completely shook. MIA, YOUR MIND!
This was truly so gripping, very emotional, and impossible to put down. I will read whatever Mia Sheridan writes!
Thank you to NetGalley, Mia Sheridan, and Montlake for the eARC of this book.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
From the very first chapter, this book completely pulled me in. Emotional, haunting, beautifully layered, and incredibly well executed, this story stayed with me long after I finished it. This was my first real venture into the romance thriller world, and honestly, I get the hype now, especially if it's done as well as this.
Duke was such an incredible character. The depth of his story, his resilience, determination, and the absolute goodness in his heart made him unforgettable. His backstory completely wrecked me. Winnie brought such warmth and heart to the story, and I loved the way their relationship developed naturally and intentionally. Nothing about it felt surface level.
And Billy… OH MY GOSH. I will not spoil a thing, but that twist? I literally had to put the book down for a few minutes and stare at the wall because I did NOT see it coming.
This book deals with very heavy subject matter, especially involving children, so I would absolutely recommend checking trigger warnings beforehand. I personally have a very hard time with child abuse themes, and while parts of this book were borderline difficult for me emotionally, I never felt like the content was there for shock value. It was handled with care and restraint, and nothing felt unnecessarily explicit. Because of that, I still found it approachable and incredibly impactful.
The layers, the reveals, the emotional depth, the character development… all of it was done so incredibly well. An easy five stars for me.
Thank you to NetGalley and Montlake for the ARC in exchange for an honest review.
Duke was such an incredible character. The depth of his story, his resilience, determination, and the absolute goodness in his heart made him unforgettable. His backstory completely wrecked me. Winnie brought such warmth and heart to the story, and I loved the way their relationship developed naturally and intentionally. Nothing about it felt surface level.
And Billy… OH MY GOSH. I will not spoil a thing, but that twist? I literally had to put the book down for a few minutes and stare at the wall because I did NOT see it coming.
This book deals with very heavy subject matter, especially involving children, so I would absolutely recommend checking trigger warnings beforehand. I personally have a very hard time with child abuse themes, and while parts of this book were borderline difficult for me emotionally, I never felt like the content was there for shock value. It was handled with care and restraint, and nothing felt unnecessarily explicit. Because of that, I still found it approachable and incredibly impactful.
The layers, the reveals, the emotional depth, the character development… all of it was done so incredibly well. An easy five stars for me.
Thank you to NetGalley and Montlake for the ARC in exchange for an honest review.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Okay so... I actually had to put my phone down and take a second after finishing this one because I was SO convinced that I had it all figured out and then... I was just wrong in the best way possible. The TWIST in this blindsided me and, as a lover of Freida McFadden, this was the kind of twist I cravvvveeeeeee.
I will say that this story is dark and sometimes hard to read. There is no shying away from the topics of poverty, trauma, hopelessness, and cruelty, but there is also no shying away from the love, hope, and tenderness that is weaved through it all. I became invested in the characters lives and I wanted a happy ending for them so desperately. The multiple timelines and perspectives is a bit hard at first to get in rhythm with, but after the first part of the book, I got into the flow of it and was quickly hooked and couldn't put it down. The story had me constantly guessing what was going to happen next and just when I thought I knew... nope!
This book felt like a mixture of a heartbreaking romance with a small-town mystery and I ate it up. There were moments that made me angry and others that left me speech-(and thought)-less. There is so much pain being held by the two main characters but their perseverance through everything and their faith in each other made me never stop rooting for them.
Thank you so much for giving this to us, Mia. I will read whatever you put out next and I cannot wait for everyone to love this book as much as I did!
I will say that this story is dark and sometimes hard to read. There is no shying away from the topics of poverty, trauma, hopelessness, and cruelty, but there is also no shying away from the love, hope, and tenderness that is weaved through it all. I became invested in the characters lives and I wanted a happy ending for them so desperately. The multiple timelines and perspectives is a bit hard at first to get in rhythm with, but after the first part of the book, I got into the flow of it and was quickly hooked and couldn't put it down. The story had me constantly guessing what was going to happen next and just when I thought I knew... nope!
This book felt like a mixture of a heartbreaking romance with a small-town mystery and I ate it up. There were moments that made me angry and others that left me speech-(and thought)-less. There is so much pain being held by the two main characters but their perseverance through everything and their faith in each other made me never stop rooting for them.
Thank you so much for giving this to us, Mia. I will read whatever you put out next and I cannot wait for everyone to love this book as much as I did!
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
I went into this mostly blind, just eager to read a new Mia Sheridan book… and I’m glad I made that choice. For sensitive readers I do recommend checking trigger warnings as the story does contain some serious and dark subject matter.
Recently I finished a different book with alternating POVs and timelines that was disjointed and confusing - I’m happy to report that in The Lost Ones it made perfect sense and I loved what it brought to the story. They categorize this as romantic suspense but I’m not sure that’s correct… the romance exists but it’s not where the meat of the story is. The Lost Ones is a haunting, heart wrenching and slow moving suspense about families growing up in an area full of poverty and hard living. The pacing was slow at times but I was never bored, the author did a fantastic job of creating this area of West Virginia that was remote and wild and held so many secrets. The setting was so vivid while I read… I was entranced from the start.
There was also a doozy of a twist that I did not see coming. It’d be interesting to reread the story knowing what the twist is ahead of time and someday I might just do that.
I’m so glad I got to read Duke and Winsome’s story, to learn where they came from and catch a glimpse of their future. This is a book that will stay with me for a long time.
Thank you to NetGalley and Montlake for the opportunity to read an early copy.
Recently I finished a different book with alternating POVs and timelines that was disjointed and confusing - I’m happy to report that in The Lost Ones it made perfect sense and I loved what it brought to the story. They categorize this as romantic suspense but I’m not sure that’s correct… the romance exists but it’s not where the meat of the story is. The Lost Ones is a haunting, heart wrenching and slow moving suspense about families growing up in an area full of poverty and hard living. The pacing was slow at times but I was never bored, the author did a fantastic job of creating this area of West Virginia that was remote and wild and held so many secrets. The setting was so vivid while I read… I was entranced from the start.
There was also a doozy of a twist that I did not see coming. It’d be interesting to reread the story knowing what the twist is ahead of time and someday I might just do that.
I’m so glad I got to read Duke and Winsome’s story, to learn where they came from and catch a glimpse of their future. This is a book that will stay with me for a long time.
Thank you to NetGalley and Montlake for the opportunity to read an early copy.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
What a truly entertaining yet heartbreaking story. Throughout Duke and Winsome’s journey I did nothing but root for them. My heart went out to them. I loved Winsome’s passion for the Hills and those that lived in them. The story is told from both Duke and Winsome’s POV (present day), as well as from Billy’s POV (going back in time to when Duke’s dad was a child). Billy didn’t have it easy, with a dad who abused the whole family following the death of their mother. No excuses for this family, just reasons. Both Duke and Winsome were a product of their parent’s decisions and thus they were affected by their pasts without really understanding why. A complicated story with a definite small town feel. A definite murder mystery with some additional not so mysterious deaths in and amongst. How deep does the rabbit hole go? Who can be trusted? It’s up to Duke and Winsome to find out. What a superb plot twist too. I did not see that coming and it added a whole new perspective to the story. I loved it. I’ve got to admit I did shed a tear or two considering that each innocent (and maybe some not so innocent) characters were all a victim of circumstance. I absolutely loved this story from beginning to end. Thank you to the publisher and NetGalley for an advanced copy of this book. This is my honest review.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Thank you to NetGalley, the author, and publisher Montlake for the eARC of this 3-star read.
Duke Caraway is serving time for a brutal murder he doesn’t remember committing, and when he escapes to prove he’s innocent, ends up back in Appalachian town tied to his past. The only person willing to believe him is Winsome Fair, a guidance counselor he once saved as a child after rescuing her and from a horrific situation. That moment shaped both their lives in very different ways, and now they’re forced together again as they dig into what really happened.
As Duke and Winsome follow the trail, they uncover something much bigger than one crime—a pattern involving missing children, silence from witnesses, and people in power who shouldn’t be trusted. The story moves between different timelines and perspectives, slowly building the full picture. I went in expecting a fast-paced thriller, but it leans more toward a slow-burn mystery with a heavy focus on backstory. It does pick up later on, and I liked the characters and their connection, but overall the pacing stayed on the slower side for me. I would recommend.
Duke Caraway is serving time for a brutal murder he doesn’t remember committing, and when he escapes to prove he’s innocent, ends up back in Appalachian town tied to his past. The only person willing to believe him is Winsome Fair, a guidance counselor he once saved as a child after rescuing her and from a horrific situation. That moment shaped both their lives in very different ways, and now they’re forced together again as they dig into what really happened.
As Duke and Winsome follow the trail, they uncover something much bigger than one crime—a pattern involving missing children, silence from witnesses, and people in power who shouldn’t be trusted. The story moves between different timelines and perspectives, slowly building the full picture. I went in expecting a fast-paced thriller, but it leans more toward a slow-burn mystery with a heavy focus on backstory. It does pick up later on, and I liked the characters and their connection, but overall the pacing stayed on the slower side for me. I would recommend.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for providing me with an advanced copy in exchange for an honest review.
This book was absolutely amazing and gripping in the best way possible.
The storyline had me hooked from the first chapter and I could not put it down!
I had read this author romance books before and liked them, so I wanted to try one of her romantic suspense/thrillers and I am so glad that I did. Even through this novel's main focus is the suspense and mystery solving there was also a heartfelt romance element that bloomed beautifully throughout the novel.
The story is told in 3 POVs primarily and the author also plays around with the timeline so there is a back and forth between past and present that was done masterfully to keep you guessing about where the truth really lies. I was absolutely surprised by the plot twist and devoured the rest of the book in one sitting once it was revealed.
Overall, I would recommend this book to those looking for a good mystery/suspense book with a dash of romance.
This book was absolutely amazing and gripping in the best way possible.
The storyline had me hooked from the first chapter and I could not put it down!
I had read this author romance books before and liked them, so I wanted to try one of her romantic suspense/thrillers and I am so glad that I did. Even through this novel's main focus is the suspense and mystery solving there was also a heartfelt romance element that bloomed beautifully throughout the novel.
The story is told in 3 POVs primarily and the author also plays around with the timeline so there is a back and forth between past and present that was done masterfully to keep you guessing about where the truth really lies. I was absolutely surprised by the plot twist and devoured the rest of the book in one sitting once it was revealed.
Overall, I would recommend this book to those looking for a good mystery/suspense book with a dash of romance.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Mia Sheridan is one of my favorite authors, so when I was able to get the ARC for this and read it early I was so excited. As usual she did not disappoint. She really is a master at romantic suspense. She does such a good job at weaving together stories across different time periods and points of view, bringing us back and forth seamlessly, bring the story together in a way that keeps us on our toes. Foreshadowing with things that happen in the earlier years and are then found out later. She also does such a good job at humanizing those who often fall through the cracks in a very flawed society, mixing in truth and reality with her fiction books.
Her suspense books always keep me guessing, but the twist in this one caught me and blew my mind. I was speechless.
Last of all, one of my favorite things about her books is that most of them have the "2nd chance at love" trope. I've always been a hopeless romantic with this, and love seeing people who loved each other as kids find each other again.
Her suspense books always keep me guessing, but the twist in this one caught me and blew my mind. I was speechless.
Last of all, one of my favorite things about her books is that most of them have the "2nd chance at love" trope. I've always been a hopeless romantic with this, and love seeing people who loved each other as kids find each other again.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
This was a DARK one! Extremely sad, depressing, and heartbreaking, but it is a story definitely worth reading. The characterization was excellent. It's the early 80's and Winnie meets Duke when he rescues her and Junie from a kidnapper, Duke's dear old Dad. This of course does not bode well for Duke's already unstable home life. Things go from very bad to even worse. Now, years later, Junie is dead and Duke stands accused and is put in prison. Winnie, now a counselor agrees to try and help clear his name. Once they start looking, they uncover a huge network of corruption, and the twists just keep coming! The creepy atmosphere is well done. Yes, as I said, this is a very dark story, and it will stay with you! I did love it and will be going back through Mia Sheridan's previous books, as well as looking forward to more!
Thank you to #NetGalley, Mia Sheridan and Montlake Books for this ARC. All opinions are my own.
Thank you to #NetGalley, Mia Sheridan and Montlake Books for this ARC. All opinions are my own.
August 30, 2026
Initially, I was hesitant about this book. It didn’t captivate me from the start. However, I’m so glad I persevered and finished it. There are a few significant details in the story that are more important than they appear, but they’re so subtle that you might overlook them. For that, I’m giving it a 5-star rating. If you have any trigger warnings, you might want to check them out before reading. But if you can set aside any reservations, I highly recommend giving this book a try. You won’t be disappointed.
Growing up in the impoverished areas of towns where freedom was a luxury, where running water, food, and help were scarce, life wasn’t always fair. Despite these challenges, survival became a necessity. Some succumbed to their circumstances, while others fought to endure. This book is told through dual timelines and alternating perspectives, drawing you deeply into the characters’ stories and struggles. It’s a slow burn, but it’s definitely worth the read.
Growing up in the impoverished areas of towns where freedom was a luxury, where running water, food, and help were scarce, life wasn’t always fair. Despite these challenges, survival became a necessity. Some succumbed to their circumstances, while others fought to endure. This book is told through dual timelines and alternating perspectives, drawing you deeply into the characters’ stories and struggles. It’s a slow burn, but it’s definitely worth the read.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
What did I just read!!!
I want to take a moment to thank the author Mia Sheridan for letting me read the ARC on NetGalley. This book was way better then expected. It kept me guessing the whole time and just when I thought I had it figured out, NOPE, think again!
This book is not only greatly written but had you feeling all the feels through out. This is my first book by this author and it won't be the last.
This book takes place up in the hills in West Virginia. It centers around a family that lives below the poverty level and how they all live with the hand they were delt. As I mentioned the book pulls you in and has you on a emotional rollercoaster.
With that being said the copy I had didn't come with any trigger warnings, but be advised their is some content that may be triggering to some viewers.
I want to take a moment to thank the author Mia Sheridan for letting me read the ARC on NetGalley. This book was way better then expected. It kept me guessing the whole time and just when I thought I had it figured out, NOPE, think again!
This book is not only greatly written but had you feeling all the feels through out. This is my first book by this author and it won't be the last.
This book takes place up in the hills in West Virginia. It centers around a family that lives below the poverty level and how they all live with the hand they were delt. As I mentioned the book pulls you in and has you on a emotional rollercoaster.
With that being said the copy I had didn't come with any trigger warnings, but be advised their is some content that may be triggering to some viewers.
April 20, 2026
I’m… still trying to figure out how I feel about this book. This was a crazy ride to be honest. First, MAJOR trigger warnings: Familial inc*est/ assau*l/ r*pe and suic*de. Second, this ISNT a romance, I’d say it’s a suspense?maybe mysterious thriller? Romance is a subplot. I really don’t even wanna say too much about it bc it’s a great plot, it’s paced well, there’s twists & turns. The book is dual timeline & you get 3 POVs {one surprise pov at some point} AND THE PLOT TWIST??? Had me slamming my phone down & staring at the ceiling muttering to myself for about 8 solid minutes. Seriously my kid asked me if I was okay bc I screamed. ANYWAY lmao 3.5/4 from me friends!!!
{Frank was kinda my fav}
Thank you to NetGalley & Montlake Publishing for the eARC. Review & opinions are honest and my own!!
{Frank was kinda my fav}
Thank you to NetGalley & Montlake Publishing for the eARC. Review & opinions are honest and my own!!
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
"There is a darkness inside of me, Duke, it runs in my blood like poison."
POV: You think you’ve solved the mystery by Chapter 10... you’re wrong. 🤫
I just finished an early copy of The Lost Ones by Mia Sheridan, and let’s just say: the past never stays buried.
Duke spent his childhood saving girls from his father’s darkness. Now, he’s behind bars for a crime he can’t remember, facing the one thing scarier than prison—his father’s release. What follows is a high-stakes prison break, a return to a childhood secret hiding spot, and a search for a truth that’s more dangerous than the lie.
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐.5
Release Date: October 2026
Vibe: Dual timelines, small-town secrets, and "he didn't do it."
Want to read my full review on this book? You can find it here: https://cindieslibrary.com/the-lost-o...
POV: You think you’ve solved the mystery by Chapter 10... you’re wrong. 🤫
I just finished an early copy of The Lost Ones by Mia Sheridan, and let’s just say: the past never stays buried.
Duke spent his childhood saving girls from his father’s darkness. Now, he’s behind bars for a crime he can’t remember, facing the one thing scarier than prison—his father’s release. What follows is a high-stakes prison break, a return to a childhood secret hiding spot, and a search for a truth that’s more dangerous than the lie.
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐.5
Release Date: October 2026
Vibe: Dual timelines, small-town secrets, and "he didn't do it."
Want to read my full review on this book? You can find it here: https://cindieslibrary.com/the-lost-o...
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
This one had SUCH an eerie atmosphere. The isolated setting, the mystery, the unsettling tension… Mia Sheridan absolutely knows how to pull you into a story and make you feel uncomfortable in the best way. The vibes were immaculate from the start.
I think where it lost me a little was the pacing in the middle. There were moments that dragged just enough that I disconnected emotionally from the story instead of feeling fully consumed by it. But every time the suspense picked back up, I was locked in again.
The mystery itself kept me engaged, and I loved the darker emotional undertones woven throughout the book. If you like romantic suspense with creepy small-town energy, secrets, and an almost haunting feel, this will probably work really well for you.
Not my favorite Mia Sheridan, but still a solid read with strong atmosphere and enough intrigue to keep me turning pages.
I think where it lost me a little was the pacing in the middle. There were moments that dragged just enough that I disconnected emotionally from the story instead of feeling fully consumed by it. But every time the suspense picked back up, I was locked in again.
The mystery itself kept me engaged, and I loved the darker emotional undertones woven throughout the book. If you like romantic suspense with creepy small-town energy, secrets, and an almost haunting feel, this will probably work really well for you.
Not my favorite Mia Sheridan, but still a solid read with strong atmosphere and enough intrigue to keep me turning pages.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
My favorite Mia Sheridan to date!
A dark mystery hidden in the small town, a love story that died before it could start, and a haunting thriller as an escaped convict tries to protect the one he loves. What more could you want in a book?
I loved how the book spans three distinct timelines and perspectives to build out each of the three storylines. It adds a depth to the story, allowing not just the secrets to slowly unravel but also capture the depth of despair that could lead to some of the decisions made.
However, what really set this book apart for me was the emotions that it both captured in the writing and also evoked in me. And while parts of the story were both heartbreaking and disturbing, it also has a sense of hope and resiliency in it. That no matter how bad things are, good people are out there and can make a huge impact.
Make sure to check the trigger warnings, it was dark and the themes are incredible disturbing at times.
Thank you to Mia Sheridan, Montlake, and NetGalley for providing me with an advanced reader copy in exchange for an honest review.
A dark mystery hidden in the small town, a love story that died before it could start, and a haunting thriller as an escaped convict tries to protect the one he loves. What more could you want in a book?
I loved how the book spans three distinct timelines and perspectives to build out each of the three storylines. It adds a depth to the story, allowing not just the secrets to slowly unravel but also capture the depth of despair that could lead to some of the decisions made.
However, what really set this book apart for me was the emotions that it both captured in the writing and also evoked in me. And while parts of the story were both heartbreaking and disturbing, it also has a sense of hope and resiliency in it. That no matter how bad things are, good people are out there and can make a huge impact.
Make sure to check the trigger warnings, it was dark and the themes are incredible disturbing at times.
Thank you to Mia Sheridan, Montlake, and NetGalley for providing me with an advanced reader copy in exchange for an honest review.
April 22, 2026
Thank you to NetGalley, Mia Sheridan, and Montlake Publishing for providing an advance copy of this novel in exchange for an honest review.
Mia Sheridan is on my must read authors so I couldn’t resist reading an ARC of her latest book.
This was a compelling and well crafted conspiracy thriller that stands out within the genre. The storyline spans multiple years and generations, weaving together a complex and engaging narrative that kept me invested throughout.
The author offers a fresh perspective on familiar thriller elements, elevating the story with strong psychological depth. Many trigger warnings for those who have them.
Overall, a gripping and thoughtfully executed read that will appeal to fans of intricate, character driven suspense.
4⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Mia Sheridan is on my must read authors so I couldn’t resist reading an ARC of her latest book.
This was a compelling and well crafted conspiracy thriller that stands out within the genre. The storyline spans multiple years and generations, weaving together a complex and engaging narrative that kept me invested throughout.
The author offers a fresh perspective on familiar thriller elements, elevating the story with strong psychological depth. Many trigger warnings for those who have them.
Overall, a gripping and thoughtfully executed read that will appeal to fans of intricate, character driven suspense.
4⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Don’t let my 3-star rating turn you away from this one! Mia Sheridan is an incredible writer and wrote one of my all-time favorite books, Where the Truth Lives. The Lost Ones had such a great premise, and Mia is so good at her research, world-building, and making you feel completely immersed in the story. Her writing is seamless.
The only reason this was a 3-star read for me is because it didn’t have enough romance. I read for the romance first, and thrillers are a little harder for me to fully connect with unless there’s a stronger romantic element. So this rating is definitely more about my personal reading preferences than the quality of the book.
If you’re someone who loves thrillers, suspense, and atmospheric mysteries, I definitely think you’ll enjoy this one more than I did!
The only reason this was a 3-star read for me is because it didn’t have enough romance. I read for the romance first, and thrillers are a little harder for me to fully connect with unless there’s a stronger romantic element. So this rating is definitely more about my personal reading preferences than the quality of the book.
If you’re someone who loves thrillers, suspense, and atmospheric mysteries, I definitely think you’ll enjoy this one more than I did!
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
I don’t usually read the thriller genre, but I really enjoy the books I have read by the author so much that Mia Sheridan has kind of become a one click author for me regardless of the storyline. I don’t think I’ll ever forget this book and am highly anticipating the audiobook for it. I can’t be the only person that got 85% into the book then decided to re-read the book from page 1 because HOW DID I MISS THAT PLOT TWIST. I was right but so so so wrong at the same time. I don’t think there are any more details that can be given outside of the book description without totally ruining the book for the reader, so it's probably best to go in blind and hang on for the ride! It’s one of the wildest I’ve been on.
August 6, 2026
A great read about love and redemption.
I liked the way the romance and mystery played off each other. Duke and Winsome's relationship felt authentic, and the suspense never took a back seat. I really liked the dual timelines in this one, the reveals were even more satisfying.
One thing I always appreciate about Mia's books is that they're about more than just solving a mystery and romance. She tackles some really difficult topics and isn't afraid to shine a light on corruption and the people who fight to protect those who can't always protect themselves. It gives her stories heart. The twists...I definitely didn't see them all coming. Every time I thought I had it figured out, the story went in a completely different direction.
This one is emotional, intense, and was hard for me to put down. Mia Sheridan is beoming an auto-read author for me!
Thank you to Montlake and Netgalley for the ARC of this novel!
I liked the way the romance and mystery played off each other. Duke and Winsome's relationship felt authentic, and the suspense never took a back seat. I really liked the dual timelines in this one, the reveals were even more satisfying.
One thing I always appreciate about Mia's books is that they're about more than just solving a mystery and romance. She tackles some really difficult topics and isn't afraid to shine a light on corruption and the people who fight to protect those who can't always protect themselves. It gives her stories heart. The twists...I definitely didn't see them all coming. Every time I thought I had it figured out, the story went in a completely different direction.
This one is emotional, intense, and was hard for me to put down. Mia Sheridan is beoming an auto-read author for me!
Thank you to Montlake and Netgalley for the ARC of this novel!
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
This one had me completely hooked!! I kept wanting to pick it back up just to see what would happen next. It moves through the ’50s, ’60s, and into the early ’80s, set on a hillside in West Virginia, and really captures the rawness of poverty and survival. Some parts were tough to read. It has a little bit of everything..suspense, love, and a lot of emotional depth.
The only reason it’s not five stars for me is that toward the end it felt a bit drawn out, and with so many characters, I had a couple moments of trying to keep track of who was who. Still, such a compelling and unforgettable read!!! Thank you to Montlake Publishing & Netgalley for the ARC!
The only reason it’s not five stars for me is that toward the end it felt a bit drawn out, and with so many characters, I had a couple moments of trying to keep track of who was who. Still, such a compelling and unforgettable read!!! Thank you to Montlake Publishing & Netgalley for the ARC!
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Arc Review
The Lost Ones was an incredible read from start to finish. The character development really stood out—each character felt real, layered, and easy to connect with. I found myself completely invested in their journeys.
The story itself was full of twists that kept me guessing the entire time. Just when I thought I had it figured out, something new would unfold and pull me even deeper in. Everything flowed so well, and the pacing kept it exciting without feeling rushed.
Overall, I absolutely loved this book. It’s a gripping, well-written story with strong characters and plenty of surprises. Definitely a must-read!!
The Lost Ones was an incredible read from start to finish. The character development really stood out—each character felt real, layered, and easy to connect with. I found myself completely invested in their journeys.
The story itself was full of twists that kept me guessing the entire time. Just when I thought I had it figured out, something new would unfold and pull me even deeper in. Everything flowed so well, and the pacing kept it exciting without feeling rushed.
Overall, I absolutely loved this book. It’s a gripping, well-written story with strong characters and plenty of surprises. Definitely a must-read!!
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